Rayfel “Lil Ray” Matta Jr. : Accomplice pleads guilty in Louisiana store slaying

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Louisiana store slaying accomplice
2. Plea deal in store slaying case

A Baton Rouge teenager was sentenced to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to reduced charges in the slaying of local rapper Rayfel “Lil Ray” Matta Jr. Clarence Jones, 19, accepted a plea deal for a 2021 robbery that escalated to a shooting outside a food mart. Matta, known as “Rambo K Kutta,” collaborated with platinum-selling artists and was a rising star in the hip-hop world. Jones cooperated with authorities and provided information leading to the prosecution. His co-defendant, Anthony Taylor, received a life sentence for the murder. Jones expressed remorse for his role in the crime and apologized to Matta’s family.

Tragic Shooting at Hollywood Food Mart

A Baton Rouge teenager, Clarence Jones, was sentenced to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to reduced charges in connection with a tragic incident that occurred at the Hollywood Food Mart in the 5500 block of McClelland Drive. Three years ago, the local rapper Rayfel “Lil Ray” Matta Jr., known in the hip-hop world as “Rambo K Kutta,” was shot and killed during a robbery that escalated into violence.

Cooperation with Authorities

Originally indicted for second-degree murder, Jones, who was 16 at the time of the shooting, cooperated with the District Attorney’s office and provided valuable information that aided in the prosecution of the case. As a result, his charges were reduced to attempted second-degree robbery and accessory after the fact to murder. District Judge Fred Crifasi sentenced Jones to 20 years in prison but suspended 10 years as part of the plea deal.

Sentencing of Co-Defendant

Anthony Taylor, Jones’ co-defendant in the case, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and was sentenced to life behind bars. Taylor, who was 17 at the time of the shooting, was granted parole eligibility after serving 25 years of his sentence. The tragic incident unfolded when Taylor gunned down Matta during an argument outside the store near Brookstown.

Surveillance Footage Reveals Details

Store surveillance footage showed Matta talking to Jones and Taylor moments before the shooting. The confrontation escalated when Taylor retrieved a gun from the car and demanded items from Matta’s pockets. A struggle ensued, leading to Taylor shooting Matta multiple times as he tried to flee into the store. Jones and Taylor then fled the scene in a Honda Accord.

Mourning the Loss

Loved ones of Matta mourned his untimely death during the court hearing, highlighting his promising music career and the impact his loss has had on the community. Jones expressed remorse through his attorney, apologizing to the victim’s family for his involvement in the robbery attempt. Despite confessing to his role, Jones claimed he did not anticipate Taylor’s actions that led to Matta’s death.

Final Thoughts

The sentencing of Clarence Jones serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of violence in our communities. As we reflect on this tragic incident, we must strive to promote peace and understanding, working towards a future where such senseless acts of violence are prevented.